In this episode, we explore different livestock feed options for dry seasons.
Joining us are Hayley Norman, a pasture researcher from CSIRO, and Emily Stretch, a farmer from Kojonup. They talk about the impact of the current dry season on livestock operations on WA farms and share alternative feed options farmers can consider.
A key topic is the use of saltbush as a feed alternative in dry years. Hayley and Emily explain how farmers can make use of less productive land for growing shrubs and other feed options. They also discuss the health considerations for livestock when switching to these alternatives.
This episode is brought to you by the South-West WA Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub and is hosted by Shannon Beattie.
Episode links
Drought resilient landscapes with profitable native shrub and legume systems across southern Australia – Fitzgerald Biosphere Group
PDS Spotlight on Productive saltland pastures for southern WA – Meat & Livestock Australia
The spread of kikuyu – Meat & Livestock Australia
Additional resources
Grain and Graze 2 program – FarmLink
Saltbush: A grazing option? – FutureBeef
Saltbushes for dryland salinity management in Western Australia – DPIRD
Making Silage – Dairy Australia
Information about perennials, case studies, establishment, feeding and shrub spacing calculator – Saltland Genie
Case Study: Weaning Management – DPIRD
